Companies following ASPE may classify their expenses by nature, but not by function.

ASPE

Accounting Standards for Private Enterprises, a set of accounting standards for private companies in Canada.

Expenses

Costs incurred in the operation of a business that are not directly tied to the production of goods or services but are necessary for the business's functioning and profitability.

Nature

The inherent qualities or characteristics of something; in accounting, it may relate to the types of expenses or incomes.